Cricket Australia (CA) has officially settled their final squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, confirming a 15-player team along with two traveling reserves. The selectors have decided to retain the core squad from their preliminary list, emphasizing the strength and balance of the current team. Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matthew Short will accompany the squad as reserves, reflecting the intense competition f??or spots.

Strong performance from Jake Fraser-McGurk in the IPL 2024

Fraser-McGurk, who made a significant impact in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 with the Delhi Capitals (DC), scored 330 runs in nine matches, boasting an average of 36.66 and a strike rate of 234.04. However, due to the depth and strength of Australia’s top-order batting, Fraser-McGurk narrowly missed out on a spot in the 15-man squad.

The versatility of Matt Short

Similarly, Matt Short, known for his versatility and outstanding form in the Big Bash League (BBL), was close to making the squad. Short was the Player of the Series in the BBL 2022-23, scoring 458 runs and taking 11 wickets. His T20I credentials include a strike rate of 175.96 from nine matches. Despite these impressive statistics, the depth in Australia’s batting lineup resulted in Short being named a traveling reserve.

Also READ: Mohammad Kaif predicts the semifinalists of T20 Wo??rld Cup 2024

Head coach Andrew McDonald revealed that both Fraser-McGurk and Short were considered for opening roles in the squad. Nevertheless, the decisi??on ultimately favoured the in-form players already established in these positions, which led to Fraser-McGurk and Short being named as reserves. McDonald highlighted the strong performances and form of the current top-order batters as the reason for this decision.

“You look at Jake’s form in the IPL �?he took that by storm and he was a serious consideration for the final 15. And so was Matthew Short. His BBL form has been outstanding over a long period of time and he’s shown glimpses at the international level as well, albeit at times he’s had to play a different role. When you’re on the fringes potentially you’re going to have to play different roles at different times and he’s really embraced some middle-order opportunities,” McDonald was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

Leadership and Key Players

Mitchell Marsh will lead the team, having been promoted to full-time T20I captain. The squad includes key players like left-arm spinner Ashton Agar, who returns to the T20I fold after his last appearance in the 2022 World Cup on Australian soil. The all-rounder contingent, featuring Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, Cameron Green and Glenn Maxwell, provides a robust blend of batting and bowling options??.

Despite their proven abilities, notable players such as Steve Smith, Jason Behrendorff and Tanveer Sangha have not secured spots in Australia’s final squad for the global showpiece event.

Australia’s final squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024

Mitchell Marsh , Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Ti?m David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron ??Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa

Travelling Reserves: Jake Fraser-McGurk, Matthew Short

Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign

Australia’s campaign in the T20 World Cup will commence against Oman in Barbados on June 5, followed by Group B fixtures against England, Namibia and Scotland. The tournament, co-hosted by the W?est Indies and the USA, will be a significant test for Australia’s prep??aration and form.

Also READ: Mohammad Hafeez picks his?? three favourite teams in the T20 World Cup 2024; excludes Pakistan

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The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) stands as a pinnacle of cricketing rivalry, fiercely contested between India and Australia, captivating fans with its electrifying battles. In recent years, this series has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity and intensity, owing largely to India’s historic triumphs in the last two BGT series held in Australia. These victories, unprecedented in Indian cricket history, have not only elevated the prestige of the series but also intensified the rivalry between the two cricketing giants.

The highly anticipated 2024-25 edition of BGT is poised to begin on November 22 in Perth. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits this clash of titans, all eyes will be on the team under the leadership of Pat Cummins, eager to avenge their previous series defeats. Fueled by a burning desire to reclaim their dominance on home soil, Australia will be determined to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of victory. On the other side of the pitch, India, under the potential captaincy of Rohit Sharma, will aim to settle the score after t?heir loss in the WTC 2023 final.

Cricket Australia introduces separate fan zones for Indian spectators

Recognizing the growing influence and presence of Indian fans at stadiums, Cricket Australia (CA) has taken proactive steps?? to en??hance the fan experience. In a bid to accommodate and celebrate the passion of Indian supporters, CA has announced plans to establish a dedicated Fan Zone exclusively for Indian admirers.

D?edicated seating will be allocated to Indian fans in the fan zones, with CA urging supporters to secure their tickets specifically for this area. Additionally, CA has encouraged fans to don blue jerseys and bring along musical instruments to enhance the atmosphere and make the upcoming Test matches an unforgettable experience. The board provided all these infor?mation in their recent press release.

“Once they are on sale, fans are encouraged to secure their seats in the Indian fan zones and help enhance the vibrant atmosphere by donning blue attire and bringing traditional instruments such as the Dhol for a family-friendly experience,” the CA statement mentioned, as quoted by ANI.

Also READ: David Miller names a bowler who will be a major threat in?? the T20 World Cup 2024

Schedule for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

The Test series featuring India and Au??stralia will commence on November 22 at the Optus Stadium in Perth. This will be followed by the second Test, a pink-ball or day-night match, in Adelaide starting on December 6. The series will then move to The Gabba in Brisbane on December 14, with the iconic Boxing Day Test set to take place in Melbourne. Finally, the series will conclude with the Pink Test in Sydney on January 3.

Also READ: Rohit S??harma set to retire post T20 World Cup 2024 after Hardik Pandya’s inclusion in 15-member squad; Reports

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Cricket Australia (CA), on Wednesday, revealed the roster of their 15-member men’s squad for the impending T20 World Cup. Despite the inclusion of several recognizable players, the unexpected absence of prominent batsman Steve Smith caught many by surprise. While teams retain the option to revise their squads until May 25, indications suggest that Sm?ith is unlikely to receive a last-minute inclusion.

Steve Smith’s legacy in white ball formats

This marks the first time in a decade that Smith finds himself excluded from Australia’s World Cup roster, breaking a streak dating back to 2014. Smith, a stalwart in Australia’s cricketing landscape, has been a constant presence in the national side’s white-ball campaigns, notably contributing to their title wins in the 2015 ODI World Cup, 2021 T20 World Cup, and 2023 ODI World Cup.

Decline in T20 participation

However, his involvement in the T20 format has dwindled over the years, evident from his limited appearance in the 2022 T20 World Cup (played only one game), as Australia shifted focus to power-hitters like Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Tim David.

George Bailey explains reason behind Smith’s absence

Chief selector and former Australia captain George Bailey has provided insight into Smith’s exclusion from the T20 World Cup 2024 squad. While acknowledging Smith’s recent achievements in the shortest format, Bailey indicated that the current team boasts a lineup well-suited for the top order.

“I think his (Steve Smith) best T20 work of late has come at the top of the order, and at the moment, we see that top order being really settled. I still think he’s got an enormous amount of good cricket left ahead of him, across what formats, I think that’s as much up for him to decide,” said Bailey as quoted by Metro.

Also READ: Australia an?nounces squad for T20 World Cup 2024; no place for Steve Smith and Jake Fraser-McGurk

Anticipation of format transition

Bailey highlighted Smith’s enduring passion for T20 cricket, evident from his upcoming participation in the MLC tournament. He also acknowledged that Australia has had several players involved in multiple formats for extended periods, but it’s inevitable that some may eventually prioritize or phase out certain formats as their careers progress, reflecting the natural evolution of players within cricketing contexts.

“I know he still loves playing T20 cricket �?he’s going to play some MLC later this year �?so that’s still an itch that he’d like to scratch. We’ve had a handful of players, probably more than some other countries, that have been multi-format for a long, long period of time, and it’s natural that some of those will start to drop off,” added Bailey.

Also READ: Twitter goes gaga as BCCI includes Sanju Samson in India’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2024

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Marcus Stoinis shared his perspective on being excluded from the Australian central contracts subsequent to his decisive innings against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), propelling Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to victory in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 encounter on Tuesday (April 23) triumphing by 6 wicket??s.

Marcus Stoinis’ superb innings leads LSG to victory

Exhibiting his pinnacle performance against CSK, Stoinis amassed an undefeated 124 runs off 63 deliveries, showcasing 13 boundaries and 6 maximums. On the heels of his stellar performance, LSG successfully pursued an imposing target of 211 runs with 3 balls to spare in their innings. Demonstrating composure, Stoinis aggressively tackled Mustafizur Rahman in the final over when LSG required 17 runs for victory. Collaborating with Nicholas Pooran and Deepak Hooda, Stoinis guided LSG to a triumphant finish.

Also READ: Cricket Australia annou?nces central contracts for 2024-25; M??arcus Stoinis misses out

Stoinis reflects on Australian central contract omission

Post-match, during the presentation ceremony, versatile all-rounder Stoinis articulated his determination to continue vying for a place in the national squad despite being omitted from the central contracts for the 2024-25 season. The 34-year-old acknowledged his exclusion and welcomed the emergence of young talent to secure their positions. Nevertheless, he expressed eagerness to participate in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024, cit??ing the IPL as optimal preparation for the prestigious tournament.

“I’ve got a great relationship with the [Australia] coach [Andrew McDonald]. Me not getting a contract, I knew that a while ago. I think it is great to give younger kids a crack and let them take my spot. I’m absolutely fine with that on the contract list. But on the playing front, obviously want to make sure that I’m there and that’s also why it’s so lucky for us and for me particularly to have this competition [the IPL], that’s why I love it so much,” Stoinis said.

Australia’s T20I setup for the World Cup 2024

Stoinis, whose absence from the central contracts for the 2024-25 term was confirmed in March, had remained discreet on the matter until now. While he remains contracted for the ongoing 2023-24 period until June 30, his exceptional performance in Chennai further solidifies his potential inclusion in Australia’s T20 World Cup squad under the leadership of Mitchell Marsh. Stoinis has consistently proven his worth in Australia’s T20I setup, contributing to a cohesive middle-order alongside the likes of Glenn Maxwell and Tim David.

Also READ: Mitchell Marsh identifies the most cruc??ial Austral?ian player for T20 World Cup 2024

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Michael Slater, a prominent figure in Australian cricketing history, experienced a distressing turn of events on Tuesday as he collapsed in a Queensland court after his bail was denied. Slater, aged 54, required assistance from court personnel to stand up following the magistrate’s decision to refuse his bail application.

Facing multiple charges, including stalking and domestic violence

The former Australian Test cricketer, celebrated for his prowess on the field and revered for his insightful commentary in the broadcast booth, confront??s a daunting array of legal hurdles. Among them are over a dozen charges stemming from allegations of stalking a??nd domestic violence, presenting a significant legal battle for the former sports icon.

Further proceedings are scheduled for the end of May

The court is slated to reconvene at the end of May to delve into further proceedings regarding Slater’s case. During the recent hearing, revelations emerged about Slater’s struggles with mental health issues, which were cited as potentially contributing to “impulsive and reckless” actions, according to ABC News.

Also READ: IPL 2024: Heartbroken by RCB’s 6th defeat in 7 match?es, Mahesh Bhupathi urges BCCI to sell the team to a new owner

Illustrious cricketing career

In his distinguished cricketing career, spanning from 1993 to 2004, Slater left an indelible mark on the sport. He participated in 74 Test matches for Australia, accu?mulating?? over 5,000 runs, which included an impressive tally of 14 centuries. Additionally, Slater showcased his talents in 42 one-day internationals before retiring from all forms of cricket.

The collapse of the former cricketer in court has thrust mental health concerns into the spotlight, prompting reflect??ion on ?the challenges faced by individuals, even those with esteemed public personas.

Also READ: IPL 2024: Suresh Raina ?len?ds a helping hand to limping MS Dhoni; video goes viral

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Cricket Australia (CA) announced the list of centrally contracted players for the 2024-25 season on April 15, 2024. This season holds significant importance for the team as it includes participation in two major international tournaments: the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and the Women’s Ashes.

Central contract system

According to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers’ Association, between 15 and 18 female players can receive central contracts each season. Players who do not receive contracts initially can earn upgrades throughout the year by accumulating 12 points based on match appearances. Points are awarded as follows: five points for a Test match and two points for One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).

Sophie Molineux returns to contract list

Sophie Molineux is one of the key additions to the central contract list for the upcoming season. After a successful return to the Australian side in recent tours, Molineux earned an upgrade to the 2023-24 contracts in the past month during Australia’s tour of Bangladesh. She had initial??ly secured a central contract in 2018, but an injury in 2022 resulted in her losing the contract.

Molineux made a comeback to the Australian Test team for the one-off Test match against South Africa in February 2024. She was also selected ahead of Jess Jonassen for the Bangladesh tour, w??here she took 11 wickets.

“We’re really pleased to be able to offer Soph a contract after her successful return to the side this summer. She’s shown a great deal of resilience to get back to full fitness and she’ll play an important role next summer,” said Cricket Australia’s Head of Performance and National Selector Shawn Flegler.

Also READ: Twitter reactions – Laura Wolvaardt’s stunning century propels South Africa to comfortable win over Sri Lanka in 2nd WODI

Key players in the contract list

Apart from Molineux, the contract list includes some regular faces such as Ashleigh Gardner, Alyssa Healy, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, and Megan Schutt, among others.

CA contracted women’s players 2024-25

Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim G??arth, Heather Graham, Grace Harris, Alyssa Healy, Jessica Jonassen, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Tayla Vlaeminck, Georgia Wareham

Also READ: Bismah Maroof, Babar Azam and others attend?? Aliya Riaz’s wedding ceremony; pics & videos go viral

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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